Beauty and the Vampire

Beauty and the Vampire Trilogy #1

by Demelza Brown, Em Brown

This vampire is worse than a beast.

For years the Earl of Blackbourne has suffered a thirst for blood and a desire for flesh. His victims have been many. Condemned alongside him is his kindhearted half-brother.

But hope arrives in the form of a beautiful debutante, whose servants could satiate his appetites while he attempts to undo the curse.

An oppressed indentured servant, Daliyah yearns only for her freedom. When she finds herself trapped at Castle Blackbourne, it's not just her freedom that's in peril. If she succumbs to the ravenous fangs of the Earl, her body will be his to take and her life his to drain.

Genres: Fantasy, Vampires, Paranormal, Beauty and The Beast, Romance, Horror, Ebooks

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 18, 2022

Reviews

[Anna 🧸 · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don’t know maybe 1-1,5 ⭐️
Nooo, this wasn't for me. I read it, but I don't think I'll continue this series any further. It somehow felt like nothing amazing happened and the same thing kept happening over and over again…I kept expecting more to happen, but no. So I'll just leave it at that.

[ꭲꮋꭼ ꮩꭺꮇꮲꭹꭱꭼ · Rating 4 out of 5]

... Damn. 🔥

[V.P. Nightshade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beauty and the...Vampire?

I read the prequel to this book and found it very entertaining. I am glad I did because I am not sure that I would have enjoyed this book as well as I did. I don't see many if any parallels to Beauty and the Beast though. Still the book is good, there is a question in my mind though. I am not sure who is supposed to be the hero in this book, Addison or the Earl. So far neither are jumping out at me as hero material, ESPECIALLY after Montegue's second 'visit' to Daliyah! Neither was a hero... I will read the second book, though I don't see a book three yet, or even one on pre-order, and book 2 is a year old. Come on author finish book 3!!!

[daemyra, the realm's delight]

DNF. Can't stick with it.

[Tania · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was a rather disappointing read. I had such high hopes, but I almost DNF'd it. Finished it only out of morbid curiosity. The premise was so promising, but I never got used to the writing style and there were no likeable or strong characters. The MMC was horrible and the FMC was so weak. The rest of the characters weren't much better. There's a second book, but I will not be reading it.

[Lyn Brownlie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is part one of a dark short story retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
Daliyah is an indentured servant of aristocracy who is treated horribly by them and the other servants she works with.
Montague, The Earl of Blackbourne has been cursed by a witch for his misdeeds and desperately seeks a release of the curse she has placed upon him.
His kind brother Addison does much to curb Montague’s bad ways and cravings for blood, as he tries to help him to cure this curse.
Daliyah’s group unfortunately need help near the Lord’s property and are invited to stay at the castle.
Once there the party experience many strange happenings.
Along with some steamy interludes between the occupants within.

The story ends part way through the re-telling so I’m curious to find out more.
Would have liked this to have been the full story though and not just Part One.

I enjoyed this 3 hour 47 minute audiobook and it’s narrator.
Am keen to finish the rest of the story.

I received a free copy of the audiobook but had already bought a copy of the ebook myself.

[Lily · Rating 2 out of 5]

Right, so this was a bit drawn out for no reason. There was little to no romance, but plenty of SA, which turned me off. I'm still not sure what this series is about. Is it a BWWM/MF romance, or is it MFM? I have no clue who the hero is, since neither has signs of redemption in my eyes. I know that Daliyah is an ex-slave who is now an indentured servant, but does she truly have to be so spineless? I would've also liked to know more about her appearance. What is her hair like? Is it long and curly? Is it short? Does she have braids? What about her complexion? Is she medium, dark, or light brown? Was her father a plantation owner? It seems to allude to that fact, but doesn't give definitive details about him.

I also don't understand the situation with the petticoats that Addison gave to Daliyah. Why didn't Montague just ask Addison about it? He simply ignored the fact that his brother could've gifted her the petticoats, and gave them to Ms Cameron, making Daliyah look like a thief! Then it was never addressed again. That pissed me off. So far, I don't like anyone in this series. Idk if I'm going to read book two. The only reason that I would is bc I've already invested so much time by reading the first book.

If I do, I hope that Daliyah grows a spine. She's the smartest one of all of them, and she just let them walk all over her and abuse her. Then her attitude...UGH! She might as well say, "Thanks, may I have some more?" after being treated poorly. How on earth could she not have a problem with hearing Mr. Brooke shagging the heck out of Emma, when there's clearly some kind of attraction between her and him? She even pleasured herself whilst listening to them.... GIRL, WHAT?! If a man showed even a modicum of interest in me, then I hear him shagging the heck out of someone who treated me like sh*t, there would be no further conversations between us. Yet, the following day, sis acted as if nothing happened! WTH!
Anyway, still trying to make up my mind about book two. And knowing there's a third book doesn't give me hope. I am not a slow-burn fan, and this is way beyond that.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting take on Beauty and the Beast, with a vampire. The Montague is the Beast (vampire) and in his arrogance was cursed until he came across real beauty. It appears he confuses physical beauty and inner beauty, which are very different. He is a bit self-centered and not a likeable fellow. Addison is his half-brother. He is personable, and someone I like. Both brothers fall for the indentured servant, Daliyah, who was traveling through the forest.
There is a short segment near the beginning of the audio book where a portion is repeated. “Wolves are nasty beasts…” In general, the story is interesting, and is well written. The characters are good. Their personalities come out, leaving me clearly liking or disliking the character as a person. Narration is good. I would be interested in reading book 2 of the trilogy.

I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Mary Cokenour · Rating 3 out of 5]

I gave this novel 3 stars, since I may not be into this type of genre, but others may enjoy it, so why give a really bad rating? An earl is cursed by a witch and turns into a vampire. His brother enables him, not really out of love, but out of an owed duty he feels. Strangers arrive at their castle, and the cast of characters is more related to the Cinderella tale - 2 mean girls, 1 servant girl treated like garbage by the mean girls, and 2 male servants who are just as mean to her.

The vampire bites his victims, entralls them, rapes them, and then drains them of their blood till they die, and are not reborn as vampires themselves. The servant girl is craved by both the earl and his brother, so they tag team the servant girl. This is a trilogy, and I am not interested in the continuance.

[Mara J · Rating 3 out of 5]

While Beauty and the Vampire had an interesting premise as a dark paranormal retelling of Beauty and the Beast, it didn’t quite deliver the intensity I was hoping for.

The first book ends on a supposed cliffhanger, but it felt more anticlimactic than suspenseful. Honestly, I think books 1 and 2 should have been combined into one, as the split felt unnecessary and disrupted the flow of the story.

As for the darker elements, I found the story lacking the true grit and eerie atmosphere I expect from this genre. I've read much darker paranormal tales that have left me scared or at least disturbed, but this one didn’t evoke any of those feelings.

If you're looking for something light with a hint of spice, this might work for you, but for those wanting a truly chilling and twisted paranormal experience, this might fall short.

[Kkhmonrai · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an exciting and intriguing dark fairytale retelling, and because Em Brown is (one of) the author, there is plenty of sexy heat. This is a take on Beauty and the Beast...with a vampire as the curse 'victim.' I enjoyed the heroine, Daliyah, who has spirit, though it is limited by her servant status. I adored Addison, but Montague truly was a selfish beast, and I found it hard to empathize or sympathize with him. Hopefully the next book will see him on a path to redemption. This is a true trilogy, not a series, so the book ends on a cliffhanger to be continued in the next book.

I received an ARC from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Keema Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beauty and The Vampire, Book1

Wow, this book was so refreshing and speechless. I love this fairytale retelling. I couldn’t stop listening to this book while I read along. It was mind blowing I must say I found myself wanting to put Emma, James and Mr. Phillips in their place for Daliyah. I also, love how Mr. Brooks seem to be courting her too, although it may not be quite obvious to everyone. I have to say I’m curious about if Mr. Brooks will experience Daliyah without being under the influence. I also wonder about how long it will take The Earl and Mr. Brooks to realize the true meaning of the witches poetry. Needless to say I will be reading this series til the end.

[Andria Evans]

Good for what it is

I’m keeping in mind that this is the first in a series which is why I have it three stars. Montague is kind of intolerable and I’m hoping he gets some character development because he seems just one-dimensional of all the dark romantic lead tropes. I also would have liked the book info to mention that there is a “love” triangle because that plays a significant role in the book that I wasn’t really wanting. I did enjoy the main character, but she did seem fairly passive though it did seem to be in character.

[Mills · Rating 3 out of 5]

A smutty Mrs. Radcliffe does Beauty and the Beast. A quick, fun read with a cliffhanger ending. I don't recall the mention of a particular time setting, but it feels Georgian and the writing is in-keeping and flows well. I didn't notice any anachronisms; in fact the only error I highlighted was "ma enfant". Enfant is masculine, so it should be "mon". This is brilliant form for a self-published novel, particularly a freebie.

[Elise Jordan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Really really disappointing

I rarely give bad reviews but I regret purchasing this book. It's nothing like a romance, I guess it's a gothic book but it lacks the classic story line of a good Gothic book. If I can return the next book I would because this has zero romance. It's downright depressing and the one vampire has no redeeming qualities, which could work but he's portrayed as rather vulgar and has not much going for him. A two Star rating is generous. I'm really really disappointed. The description was not at all what this book is about.

[Megan Collins · Rating 1 out of 5]

In fairness, this book is exactly as it describes itself to be. There is a loose reskinning of the Beauty and the Beast tale where an Earl rejects taking responsibility for his philandering ways and is cursed by a witch. He becomes a vampiric monster and attacks members of his own estate, until he is guarded by only one servant. A party that is warned to not go into the woods, goes into the woods and is chased by wolves to the mysterious castle. Hoping a beautiful maiden will be the answer to unraveling the curse, Addison and Montague are surprised that relief comes in the form of an indentured West Indies servant instead. It has gothic vibes and an intentional slow pace. However, it is only part of a story and given the repeated sexual assault of our heroine--I don't want to see the efforts to redeem our male leads. Dahlia is rather passive and not just to those that hold her contract. I like fairy tale reimaginings but this one feels thin.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hot vampire!
Ending on a cliffhanger this vampire tale has two gentlemen wanting the same lady. I wonder if they will realize that they both need her. I am pretty sure she is the answer to the curse but will not know for sure until the end of the story. Lots of naughty steam to entertain too and I am looking forward to book two. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Taaibah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this spin on the old fairytale of Beauty and the Beast...
I will definitely continue with series to see where it leads to...
A most interesting read and I love the way the characters interact...
Showing prejudices, ignorance and kindness in a deceptive situation...
Definitely one of my favorite authors who's works never seem to disappoint...
A really good read... but be warned - it ends with a cliff-hanger that will leave you wanting more...

[kels · Rating 1 out of 5]

unfortunately I read this entire thing - I don’t usually leave bad reviews but I feel the need to warn people that this may not be what they expect

this is a very warped, dark beauty and the beast retelling. the beast is supposed to fall in love with the woman who saves him, not assault her, let his brother assault her (who’s in love with her?) then lock her in a tower for his “needs” I truly hope the two mmcs find no happy ending

[Sandy N · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really looking forward to reading this first book in this series after loving the prequel. It's still confusing to see who is the Hero between Montague and Addison because the story is told from three different angles. I didn't find it that erotic either. The sex scenes are quite mild for my liking.
I'll keep an open mind for book 2.

[Sam Allen · Rating 3 out of 5]

NOt for me

I have enjoyed other books by this author but this one wasn't for me. It just felt a bit steady although book two may pick up the pace. I didn't really like the main male characters and found it difficult to engage with the story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jocelyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first part in the Beauty and the Vampire Trilogy, a Dark Paranormal Romance. The characters are interesting. The storyline is fast-paced, steamy, and intriguing. Looking forward to listen to the second part, to know what happens next. Jonathan Waters did a great job with the narration. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book was a very easy read though I would describe some of context as triggering for a lot of readers so do be warned. Overall, the book was okay. I could take it or leave it since the language was a bit off putting at times. I do think readers of dark fantasy would enjoy this book though since it’s a rather quick read for someone wanting something spicy.

[Stephanie Stradtman · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really liked the plot but the writing was so confusing.

I wasn’t sure who was who and what they were doing most of the time.

I thought it was going to be the Mistress and Master but it was the Maid and the Masters.

I am not sure if this is going to be a why choose but it seems like it setting it up for it.

[SuzyHD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cliffhanger 😤😵

I was really excited and loving the way this tale has drawn me in with tantalizing sex and sensuality. Intriguing character development as the plot thickens. Very well written, I love the storyline.

[Isamar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Has me feeling conflicted

This is more of a crossover of Cinderella and beauty and the beast tropes. I can say it was odd but enjoyable. I wish the side characters had less lines and Daliyah had more.

[Ash J · Rating 4 out of 5]

Steamy vampire romance

I enjoyed this first book of this series. It was unusual and steamy. I can't wait for the next book to see what happens next. I will be eagerly awaiting the second book!

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a bad story yet I did not know this was part of a trilogy that left me hanging. A curse, an innocent woman who may be the answer to this curse and two brothers wanting the same woman. Won't know how it works out to the next book. Interestingly written.

[Dawn Santacroce · Rating 1 out of 5]

I should have known when I saw Em Brown. I couldn’t even get to the smut (which is generally unimaginative in the first place. I’m convinced Em Brown is a man.) because the plot and characters are so awfully written. DNF at 15%

[Marissa Shortt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is not going to be for some folks, as there are themes of rape and assault in the story, but I will say I'm intrigued to read the next installment. Interesting retelling of an old tale for sure.